Thick-billed Parrot

Range: Western Mexico. Breeding range extends very close to Southeastern Arizona and Southwestern New Mexico.

Identification: (Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha)

This species, along with the extinct Carolina Parakeet, was one of the only two parrots native to areas north of Mexico. Despite reintroduction efforts, it is currently not found in the U.S. It has a long tail and long pointed wings. Adult: Green overall, with red on the forehead and supercilium, a red patch at the bend of the wing, and red feathering on the upper legs. The bill is black. The eyes are orange, and are surrounded by dull yellow facial skin. In flight, shows a bold pattern below. A yellow band separates the green wing linings from the black flight feathers. The underside of the tail is also black. Juvenile: Bill is dusky. The red on the head is limited to the forehead. Juveniles lack the red on the wings.

Length: 38 (cm)
Wingspan: (cm)

Habitat:

Mature coniferous forest.

Behavior:

Usually seen in small flocks. Flocks fly in a V formation, like waterfowl.